Chhattisgarh’s Korea District Leads Community Water Conservation Initiative

Korea district in Chhattisgarh has emerged as a notable example of community-led water conservation through the ‘Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari’ initiative. The programme encourages farmers to voluntarily allocate a small portion of their land for groundwater recharge and sustainable water management. Implemented under the Aawa Paani Jhoki movement, the initiative promotes participatory water conservation practices aimed at improving long-term water security in rural areas.

The programme encourages farmers to dedicate five per cent of their agricultural land to build small recharge ponds and terraced pits. These structures capture rainwater during the monsoon season and allow it to gradually seep into the ground, helping replenish local groundwater reserves.

Farm-Based Water Recharge Model

The initiative focuses on decentralised water conservation directly within agricultural fields. Farmers construct small recharge structures such as ponds and pits that collect rainwater, preventing runoff and increasing groundwater infiltration.

This approach has helped retain water that would otherwise flow away during heavy monsoon rainfall. The stored water gradually infiltrates the soil, improving soil moisture levels and reducing soil erosion. The method also supports sustainable farming by ensuring better water availability during dry periods.

Community Participation and Local Leadership

Public participation has played a key role in the success of the campaign. Women in the region have taken leadership roles as ‘Neer Nayikas’, promoting water conservation practices and guiding households in constructing soak pits for rainwater recharge.

Youth volunteers, known as ‘Jal Doots’, have also actively supported the initiative by mapping trenches, desilting canals and conducting awareness activities through street plays and wall paintings. The effort reflects a collaborative approach where local communities, farmers and administration work together to address water scarcity.

Revival of Traditional Water Bodies

As part of the programme, communities have revived more than 440 traditional ponds through collective labour. Additionally, over 500 beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana constructed soak pits near their homes, integrating water recharge measures into residential spaces.

The initiative gained momentum through Gram Sabha resolutions and technical guidance from district authorities. Micro-watershed mapping and hydrogeological studies were conducted to identify suitable locations for recharge structures and maximise their effectiveness.

Important Facts for Exams

• ‘Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari’ is a community-based water conservation initiative in Korea district of Chhattisgarh.
• The programme encourages farmers to dedicate five per cent of their agricultural land for groundwater recharge.
• ‘Neer Nayikas’ are women volunteers promoting water conservation at the community level.
• ‘Jal Doots’ are youth volunteers involved in awareness campaigns and field activities related to water management.

Impact on Groundwater and Livelihoods

The initiative has produced measurable improvements in water availability across several villages in the district. Groundwater levels have reportedly risen by around three to four metres in some areas, while natural springs have revived in 17 remote tribal hamlets.

Improved soil moisture has supported better agricultural productivity and strengthened local livelihoods. Officials also reported a reduction of about 25 per cent in seasonal migration from the region, indicating improved economic stability linked to better water management. The initiative demonstrates how scientific planning combined with community participation can create sustainable solutions to water challenges.